Tom Hanks’ appearance on Saturday Night Live’s 50th-anniversary special has become a hot topic, thanks to a sketch that featured him wearing a MAGA hat. The actor’s portrayal of a character named Doug in a Black Jeopardy parody has drawn mixed reactions, particularly from supporters of former President Donald Trump.
The special, which celebrated SNL’s five decades on air, featured a lineup of celebrities including Meryl Streep, Martin Short, and Aubrey Plaza. Hanks, a frequent host of the show, took part in a sketch that humorously explored cultural and political divides.
In the sketch, Doug’s MAGA hat became a focal point, with his interactions with Kenan Thompson’s character providing comedic tension. At one point, Doug hesitates to shake Thompson’s hand, leading to a humorous exchange that some viewers found offensive.
Social media quickly became a platform for debate, with many Trump supporters criticizing the sketch. One user tweeted, “Tom Hanks and SNL just mocked Trump voters as racist and ignorant. This is why they’re out of touch with real America.” Another commented, “The liberal bias on SNL is exhausting. They don’t understand the people they’re mocking.”
Despite the controversy, the sketch was a reminder of SNL’s ability to tackle sensitive topics through humor. The show has a long history of satirizing political figures and movements, often drawing criticism from both sides of the aisle.
Hanks, known for his affable persona and impressive career, has always been a fan favorite on SNL. However, his latest appearance has shown that even the most beloved figures can become lightning rods in today’s politically charged environment.
As the debate continues, one thing is certain: Saturday Night Live remains a powerful force in shaping cultural conversations, for better or worse.
